CLEVELAND — As Northeast Ohio prepares for extremely cold temperatures over the weekend, Cuyahoga County officials are urging residents to be winter weather ready.
Very low temperatures and strong winds are expected throughout Northeast Ohio with gusts up to 60 mph possible at times. That's why the National Weather Service in Cleveland has issued multiple weather alerts -- including a High Wind Warning.
Anyone who is seeking shelter is asked to contact Coordinated Entry at 216-674-7400 or visit the City of Cleveland's Warming Centers. Residents are also being encouraged to check in on seniors and those living at risk or needing assistance.
"Cuyahoga County recognizes the critical need for safe havens for our vulnerable population. Our Office of Homeless Services works closely with providers through the Continuum of Care to ensure area shelters are open and have available space. The Continuum of Care is an extensive network of agencies that plans, organizes, and delivers housing and services to prevent homelessness, assist people while they are homeless, and help transition people into stable housing," said officials in a press release.
Additionally, Cuyahoga County is reminding all residents to be aware of their city's policy regarding snow removal and parking bans.
Below are lists of safety tips and resources from Cuyahoga County officials.
SAFETY TIPS
- Dress warm: If you must go outside, wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant. Always wear a hat and cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia: Frostbite can result in loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and the tip of the nose. Hypothermia can cause uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia are detected, get medical help as soon as possible.
- Keep your pets safe: If it is too cold for you to be outside, it is probably too cold for your pet! Be sure to provide shelter for animals who regularly spend time outdoors.
- Be prepared for power outages: Have food, prescriptions and supplies on hand before an outage occurs. Use flashlights instead of candles when able. Unplug electronics to avoid power surges when power is restored.
- Use extra caution on the road: When driving, slow down and be aware of your surroundings. Allow extra time for travel. Watch for road closures and ALWAYS move over for emergency vehicles.
- Stay warm safely: Be careful when utilizing space heaters. Do not use space heaters with an extension cord and unplug heaters when they are not in use. Never heat your home with a grill, stove, or gas heater.
- Be careful when shoveling: Shoveling snow can be hard work! Remember to take breaks when needed and stop immediately if you feel short of breath or have chest pain
RESOURCES
- Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services aids our senior population. Call 216-420-6700
- Office of Homeless Services
- HEAP Winter Crisis Program
- Review the City of Cleveland’s Winter and Snow Plan
- City of Cleveland Warming Centers
- FEMA Winter Storm Guide
- The United Way 2-1-1 provides assistance with social service needs